Sep 30, 2024 49 min read Daily News Summaries

Mongolia News Summary for September 30, 2024

The following news articles are the opinions of their authors and publications. They are presented here as translations for informational purposes and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Mongolia Strategy Center or its members.

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Politics

There is information about opening the regular autumn session of the State Great Khural on October 01

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: isee.mn

There is information that the regular autumn session of the State Great Khural is planned to be opened on October 01, 2024. Every year, the regular autumn session is opened in the first week of October. During the session, several issues such as the fiscal framework statement for 2025 and the development plan for 2025 will be discussed and decided.

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Members of Parliament Worked at Major Markets and Shopping Centers in the Capital

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: gogo.mn

A total of 54 working groups have been established by the Speaker of the State Great Khural to improve the legal environment in specific sectors such as human rights, social protection, agriculture, infrastructure, and state organization, with representatives from all political parties with seats in parliament. Expanded meetings, discussions, and exchange of opinions within these working groups are ongoing. Recently, members of the State Great Khural, led by Member B. Bayarbaatar, who is also the head of the Ethics and Procedures Standing Committee, met with central region farmers and local producers as part of the working group tasked with “developing proposals and conclusions for measures to ensure the supply and stable distribution of essential products and increase resources to protect the livestock sector from risks." This time, the working group visited major markets and shopping centers in the capital to exchange views with representatives of sellers and consumers. Specifically, Member of the State Great Khural, working group leader B. Bayarbaatar, and members Ts. Munkhtuyaa and M. Narantuyaa-Nara visited the "Narantuul" International Trade Center to consolidate market information concerning the wholesale and per kilogram prices of flour, transportation, loading costs, and the demand and supply situation. Flour is purchased by citizens of the capital city and rural areas from more than 20 whole wholesale outlets operating in this trade center, but merchants noted that sales have recently decreased relatively. At these outlets, high-grade flour supplied by domestic manufacturers in 25-kilogram packaging is sold for an average of between 45,000 and 68,000 tugriks, while the price of first-grade flour fluctuates between 43,000 and 55,000 tugriks. Furthermore, although the price per kilogram of imported flour is relatively cheaper, consumers reportedly prefer domestic flour due to its taste and quality. Subsequently, members of the working group visited retail stores and specialized grocery stores in the western area of Songinokhairkhan District, such as Tologoit, to compare flour and flour product prices and sales data. During this time, Member B. Bayarbaatar emphasized that stabilizing the supply chain of essential strategic products and providing safe and reliable food at affordable prices to consumers is a top priority of the government's policies and decisions. The working group members announced that they will compile feedback and recommendations by integrating the cost structure and perspectives of market stakeholders starting from the cultivation of wheat to manufacturing, distribution, and sales until it reaches the hands of consumers, according to the State Great Khural Press and Information Department.

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Economy

Discussion on "Budget-2025" Held

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

The Economic Journalists Club initiated and organized the "Budget-2025" discussion at the Suld Hall of Tuushin Hotel. During this discussion, the focus was on key investments in next year's budget, the social and economic returns and consequences, major projects contributing to the significant expenses, the necessity of these projects, as well as the development of roads and energy sectors. An open discussion was conducted among representatives from the government, private sector, researchers, economists, and the public. The coalition government, formed as a result of the 2024 parliamentary elections, plans to implement 14 mega projects within the next four years as part of its operational program. The Ministry of Finance has planned the total expenditure of next year's budget to be 35.8 trillion MNT, revenue to be 33.9 trillion MNT, and a balanced balance to be 1.9 trillion MNT. The 2025 budget policy has been defined to emphasize launching major projects, expanding economic growth, focusing this growth on households, reducing government involvement, and supporting the private sector. Participants in the discussion included Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy and Development L. Gantumur, Minister of Finance B. Javkhlan, Parliament Member B. Jargalan, Director of the Fiscal Stability Council N. Enkhbayar, researcher of the Open Society Forum D. Oyunbadam, President of the Logistics Association A. Munkhbold, lecturer and doctor of Mongolian University of Science and Technology D. Ulemj, State Secretary of the Ministry of Energy N. Tavinbekh, State Certified Engineer, Chair of the Road Council N. Adilbish, State Secretary of the Ministry of Road and Transport Development S. Batbold, and Director of Arj Road LLC H. Munkh-Erdene. The Economic Journalists Club has a 15-year history and is a free association of journalists specializing in economic topics within media organizations. The club regularly organizes events such as Morning Meetings, Guest Journalists, Discussions, and Field Assignments. Currently, the club has over 60 journalists and commentators as members.

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L. Enkh-Amgalan: 70% of Welfare Expenses Do Not Reach Target Groups

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The Minister of Family, Labor, and Social Protection, L. Enkh-Amgalan, gave a briefing on the government's policy and activities to be implemented in the sector he leads over the next four years, as well as the draft laws he plans to amend. Minister L. Enkh-Amgalan stated that the welfare expenditure in the state budget is high, and there is much criticism about Mongolia becoming a welfare state. Until recently, children's money was considered welfare. When the welfare expenditure is 2.2 trillion MNT, 1.6 trillion MNT is for children's money. It seems that criticisms have arisen that welfare has become widespread due to managing social protection policies such as children's money, honorary mothers, and senior allowances under the Welfare Law. Henceforth, we will distinguish what is welfare and what is social protection policy, and reform the system. As of 2024, 28.7% of welfare expenditure reaches the target groups, while 72.3% is directed towards non-target groups such as high-income seniors and mothers who do not require welfare. This is an inefficient policy that does not align with its goals. Today, we face the question of whether the wives of directors of major Mongolian conglomerates need to receive maternity allowances or if their children and grandchildren should receive children's money. This issue will be discussed and resolved by the Parliament. The main warning from the World Bank is that your country's welfare policy does not accurately target the groups it is intended for. We are working on submitting the draft Social Welfare Law to the Parliament. We will revisit and systemically change the concept of welfare given under names such as Maternity Allowance, Hero Mother’s Medal money, and Children’s money. Welfare will be directed at exactly the target groups, such as those below the poverty line, people with disabilities, single-parent families, at-risk children, homeless people, and disaster-affected people. We will empower job-seeking individuals of working age and prepare them for the labor market. No person of working age should receive food stamps. We will eliminate redundancies in households receiving multiple forms of welfare. For instance, every household in Bayan-Ölgii province receives multiple types of welfare redundantly. There are 325 households in Bayanzurkh district and 155 households in Songinokhairkhan district receiving all types of welfare. We will report the households receiving all types of welfare by aimag and sum. From today, we are announcing the sums that are receiving or stopping receiving food stamps. In sums where food stamps have been stopped, we will support the implementation of SME support projects.

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A deficit of 4.7 trillion MNT has arisen in the pension fund

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Minister of Family, Labor, and Social Protection L. Enkh-Amgalan provided information on the policies and measures that the government plans to implement in his sector over the next four years, as well as the draft laws that are planned to be amended. Minister L. Enkh-Amgalan stated that Mongolia faces a real danger regarding the sustainability of its pension fund. Major policy reforms are necessary as the social insurance contributions paid by one employee can no longer support pensions for three individuals. A real risk of 4.7 trillion MNT has arisen due to several factors. In 2022, a law was passed to retroactively calculate social insurance contributions and working years, which covered 608,000 people and led to the payment of approximately 38 billion MNT retroactively for 11 years. Most individuals at that time paid contributions based on the minimum wage, and currently, over 300,000 people are receiving pensions from this fund. Despite the collection of 38 billion MNT, pensions amounting to 1.5 trillion MNT have already been disbursed. In the future, all remaining beneficiaries will also receive pensions, resulting in a deficit within the Social Insurance Fund. The retroactive payment of contributions has had negative repercussions. Certain groups, such as military, legal, and law enforcement officials, can retire at the age of 45 under favorable conditions. Mongolia is unique in having a retirement system that allows for such early retirement. Politically consequential decisions, such as advancing the retirement age for herders, have further jeopardized the Pension Insurance Fund. Recently, a law introduced by MP B. Purevdorj before the parliamentary elections reduced the pension calculation period from the average salary for 7 years worked to just 5 years. This amendment disproportionately benefited high-income private sector individuals, allowing them to secure a high pension after only five years of high social insurance contributions, compared to those who worked for 20, 30, or 40 years paying consistent contributions. Amending this law is essential, as no country offers pensions based on only five years of social insurance contributions. Such expensive populism has placed the Pension Fund at significant risk. As a result of four key policy decisions, a deficit of 4.7 trillion MNT has emerged in the Pension Fund. What measures will be taken going forward? If clear policy decisions are not made, the Pension Fund cannot sustain its current operations. For instance, there is a pressing need to amend the pension calculation from the last five years to at least seven, or even ten years in the future. This shift would enable each citizen to transition to a system that fairly calculates pensions based on actual working years and contributions. There is a need to review early retirement conditions and to set an upper limit on the salaries used by employers for contribution purposes. Additionally, informal sector workers, who currently do not pay social insurance contributions, should be addressed. Currently, 150,000 citizens voluntarily pay social insurance contributions, but many others remain outside the system. Efforts will be made to include the 208,000 citizens working and living abroad in social insurance contributions. Minister L. Enkh-Amgalan also outlined the planned amendments to laws that the government intends to implement within the next four years.

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VIDEO: Live Person O. Otgontugs Disseminates False Information about "Fake Invoice" Showing Brochure Price as 40 Yuan in China

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: isee.mn

During these days when the renovation of 162 km of roads in Ulaanbaatar city is ongoing, some people running for the municipal council are criticizing that "cheap brochures are being supplied at exorbitant prices and the leaders are embezzling money." For instance, a person named O. Otgontugs posted on social media claiming that "our leaders are supplying brochures priced at 19,000 MNT each when they actually cost 40 yuan or about 19,000 MNT each." Therefore, some media outlets have started investigating the price of brochures in Erenhot, China. Meanwhile, journalists from the isee.mn editorial team were investigating the brochure prices in Erenhot when they accidentally encountered the Chinese citizen who sold brochures to O. Otgontugs. From him, they gathered evidence and information. Specifically, O. Otgontugs and his companions purchased brochures from a Chinese citizen running a business in Erenhot, obtaining "one actual invoice with the real price and another fake invoice showing a sale price of 40 yuan." They paid using a Khaan Bank account and cash. When they requested the fake invoice for 40 yuan, they explained that "We are doing a big job." Subsequently, O. Otgontugs returned to Ulaanbaatar and displayed the fake invoice to the public, falsely claiming that "a brochure was bought for 40 yuan or about 19,000 MNT," spreading false information. Moreover, during the visit of our investigative team to Erenhot, China, a person believed to be a subordinate of O. Otgontugs secretly filmed our journalists and possibly conveyed the message to O. Otgontugs that the isee.mn investigative team is working to deliver accurate information to the public and "the evidence of the fake invoice is about to be revealed."

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Diplomacy

B. Tsengellkham: Vietnam's Development Experience and Methods of Attracting Investment Are of Interest

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Ulaanbaatar. At the invitation of the President of Mongolia, Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh, the President and General Secretary of the Communist Party of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, To Lam, will make a state visit to Mongolia from September 30 to October 1, 2024. We spoke with Dr. B. Tsengellkham, head of the Regional and Multilateral Cooperation Studies Department of the Institute of International Studies of the Mongolian Academy of Sciences and director of the Center for Vietnam Studies in Mongolia, about the traditional friendly relations between the two countries. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. What historical events are most prominent in the traditional friendly relations between the two countries? -Mongolian-Vietnamese relations date back to ancient and medieval times, characterized by the sincere friendship between the peoples of both countries. These relations have a long tradition and can be said to date back to the 13th century. According to historical sources such as “The History of the Yuan Dynasty,” “Notes on Annam,” and “The Complete Annals of Đại Việt,” the political, economic, and cultural ties between the Mongol Empire and the Đại Việt and Champa states were established over a 120-year period covering 1251-1371. Before establishing diplomatic relations, our countries had already maintained close relations. For example, from the early 1950s, Mongolia consistently supported the just struggle of the Vietnamese people to liberate their homeland, criticizing and opposing French military aggression through the media. The embassies of the Mongolian People's Republic (MPR) and the Democratic Republic of Vietnam (DRV) in Beijing had close relations and exchanged information about each other's countries, which was significant preparation for establishing diplomatic relations. Thus, despite not having official relations at that time, Mongolia and Vietnam regarded each other as socialist brother countries, sending congratulatory telegrams for national holidays and holding music and photography exhibitions in Hanoi and Ulaanbaatar. What was the process of establishing diplomatic relations between the two countries? Our research shows that the process of establishing diplomatic relations between Mongolia and Vietnam passed through four main stages. The first stage was the appeal sent by the President of the DRV to the governments of all countries. In this appeal, the DRV government officially announced its readiness to establish diplomatic relations with any government that respects Vietnam's equality, territorial integrity, and national sovereignty, from the perspective of mutual benefit, promoting peace worldwide, and democracy. This appeal is regarded as the initial initiative or proposal for establishing diplomatic relations with the MPR. The second stage was the MPR's official decision, accepting the initiative and proposal of the Vietnamese government. When President Ho Chi Minh visited Moscow in 1950 for Stalin's 70th birthday, the Mongolian Embassy in Moscow received this appeal, marking the first step for our country to establish diplomatic relations with Vietnam. The third stage involved selecting, appointing, and accrediting ambassadors. In 1955, the presidium of the People's Great Khural of the MPR and the politburo of the Central Committee of the Mongolian People's Revolutionary Party (MPRP) discussed and approved the decision to appoint Baianbaatarin Ochirbat, Mongolian ambassador in Beijing, and Hoang Van Hoan, DRV’s ambassador in Beijing, as ambassadors with concurrent duties. Finally, on November 17, 1954, official diplomatic relations were established, opening a new era in the history of relations between our two countries, laying a favorable groundwork for the expansion of political, economic, and cultural relations and cooperation. What is your outlook on the future of relations between the two countries? Mongolia and Vietnam have traditionally supported and assisted each other in the great cause of building and developing their countries. High-level exchanges and interactions at all levels have become regular, strengthening mutual trust and understanding, and cooperation in all sectors is intensifying. In this globalizing world, as ASEAN's influence and prestige continue to grow in Southeast Asia, and free market development progresses with East Asian countries, there is great potential and resources for the future of Mongolia-Vietnam relations. Vietnam's development experience and methods of attracting foreign investment draw our attention. We need to cooperate in areas such as green development, sustainable growth, and regional development. There are opportunities to develop economic cooperation between Mongolia and Vietnam in industries such as mining, energy, infrastructure, construction, roads, maritime transport, and agriculture. It would be sensible to cooperate with Vietnam in producing export products through deep processing of raw materials from livestock, for example, in the leather, wool, cashmere, animal-derived bioactive products, cosmetics, and biotechnology industries. People-to-people relations play a crucial role in strengthening the relations between the two countries. There are many interesting stories about the friendly relations between the two countries, such as the story of the Mongolian horse. Could you share a pleasant memory about this? How are the interactions between the people of the two countries unfolding? Our countries' relations are based on mutual understanding, trust, and long-standing friendship between the peoples. Due to the devastated economy of Vietnam, which was greatly affected by many years of war, socialist brother countries, including Mongolia, began to provide material assistance to the Vietnamese people from the mid-1950s onward. The government of the MPR established the Commission for Assisting the Vietnamese People in 1958. The first delivery of livestock as aid was recorded in the protocol from the September meeting of the Central Committee of the MPRP, which appointed J. Jamyang, a member of the committee and Minister of Heavy Industry of the MPR, as the head of the commission. During a friendly visit to the DRV in 1959 by a delegation led by Yu. Tsedenbal, a decision was made to give 100,000 heads of livestock as a gift. The September 26, 1959 resolution of the Politburo of the Central Committee of the MPRP set the terms for the provision of the 100,000 heads of livestock as non-repayable aid to Vietnam from 1959 to 1965, comprising 54 cattle, 21 camels, 364 horses, 13,748 sheep, and 813 goats, totaling 15,000 heads of livestock. Mongolia's heartfelt assistance in developing the livestock sector in Vietnam further strengthened and deepened the brotherly relationship with the Vietnamese people. At that time, President Ho Chi Minh of Vietnam said, "Our Mongolian comrades extend a warm hand of assistance and sincerely help us greatly. Whatever your country needs, tell us without hesitation. We should develop and progress together; our wealth is yours as well. If you need it in your homeland, take our buffalos to raise and test," showing deep gratitude. What is the story behind the legendary journey of the Mongolian horse? Indeed, the story of the Mongolian horse that traveled back to its homeland is like a legend. "On the 10th day, we exchanged our wagon at the China-Vietnam border because the Vietnamese wagons were smaller and the tracks were narrower. At this stop, a brown horse slipped from its bridle and escaped into the forested hills behind. The brown horse, whose bridle had slipped, escaped from us. When the horse arrived running back to its homeland, the border guards cut their traps to let it in. The horse had crossed China's Yellow River and Yangtze River and overcome swampy areas and wild animals to return to its homeland. This was around November 20, 1959... In April or May of 1960, the horse, very tired and scarred, arrived back near its wintering area," as recorded. Visiting it would have been something, but there was no opportunity for a young leader. A living creature's journey back to its homeland over the ten days it spent on a train, covered in half a year, speaks volumes about the greatness of home. The Mongolian horse has shown its intelligence and strength. What are the characteristics of Vietnamese people, in your opinion? In my opinion, perhaps due to the challenges of their long struggle for independence and freedom, the Vietnamese are patriotic, resilient, courageous, extremely hardworking, and capable of uniting and cohering as a people. The Vietnamese President is about to visit our country. What do you foresee as the outcome of this visit? What significance might this visit hold? In November 2023, the President of Mongolia, Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh, paid a state visit to Vietnam. This visit by President Khürelsükh to Vietnam was significant because it took place at the threshold of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, marking the first visit by a Mongolian head of state to Vietnam since 2013, after ten years. In addition, it was significant for the extensive discussions on bilateral relations, including political, defense, transportation, logistics, agriculture, education, culture, and tourism, as well as cooperation at regional and international levels. Most importantly, on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Mongolia and Vietnam, both sides agreed to actively work together to elevate bilateral relations to the level of a comprehensive partnership, signing several important documents and issuing a Joint Statement. Moreover, our two countries have actively collaborated within the frameworks of the UN, ASEAN, and other international cooperation bodies. The Vietnamese side reaffirmed its continued support for Mongolia's aspiration to join the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), which holds great significance. The President of Mongolia's state visit to Vietnam further strengthened the traditional friendly relationship between the two countries, paving a path for the expansion and development of bilateral cooperation in the coming years, providing a clear roadmap for the future, which is a real contribution to raising the level of relations. The Vietnamese side also held our President in high esteem, indicating the importance of this visit. His Excellency To Lam, Secretary General of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam and President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, previously visited Mongolia as the Minister of Public Security and is familiar with our country. I expect, as a researcher, that during this visit, the two heads of state will reach certain solutions on elevating the traditional friendly relations of the two countries to the level of a comprehensive partnership, based on the proposals agreed upon during last year's state visit by our President. The Vietnamese Academy of Social Sciences recently awarded you the "Distinguished Contributor to Social Sciences" award. The last person to receive this prestigious award was the World Bank President in 2016. How long have you been working on Vietnam studies, and why did you choose this field? I studied at the National University of Hanoi in Vietnam for five years from 1997. I have been working continuously at the Institute of International Studies of the Mongolian Academy of Sciences since 2007. I am very happy to have recently been awarded the "Distinguished Contributor to Social Sciences" award, conferred by Phan Chi Hieu, President of the Vietnamese Academy of Social Sciences. Our institute has a 56-year history, during which Vietnam studies have been conducted. Dr. S. Dashzebvig was the first scholar in Vietnam studies at our institute, and I am proud to continue his research as the second person working in this field. Studying under the government scholarship of the two countries' educational agreement, I have always been proud to work in Vietnam studies, having connected with Vietnam and its people, and I will continue to work hard in the future. - Thank you.

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Infrastructure

14 Mega Construction and 149 Sustainable Development Projects to be Implemented

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

Today, the First Deputy Prime Minister of Mongolia, L. Gantomor, presented the draft parliamentary resolution "On the Approval of the Development Plan of Mongolia for 2025" to the Speaker of the Parliament, D. Amarbayasgalan. The "Mongolia's Development Plan for 2025" has been aligned with the "Vision-2050" long-term development policy of Mongolia, the "New Revival Policy," and the "Regional Development Concept." It integrates the goals and objectives outlined in the medium-term development planning documents such as the "Five-Year Basic Direction for Developing Mongolia in 2021-2025" and the "Government Action Program for 2024-2028." The plan is designed to accelerate the implementation of key policy projects and measures, such as the "Food Revolution" initiative championed by the President and the Government of Mongolia, the "White Gold" national program, the "Visit Mongolia Year," "Youth Year," "New Cooperative-Prosperous Herder," and the "A-Tar IV Campaign for Sustainable Agricultural Development." The "Courage for Rapid Development" agreement of the Joint Government has been used as the guiding principle for the "Development Plan of Mongolia for 2025," which identifies the primary goal of "STRENGTHENING THE FOUNDATION FOR LONG-TERM SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT" within four main policy priority areas: Economy, Regional Development, Human Development, and Governance that Honors Human Rights. A total of 14 mega infrastructure and construction projects, as well as 149 projects aimed at accelerating sustainable development, are planned to be implemented, alongside sectoral reforms. Within the economic policy framework, 14 mega projects to establish the foundational infrastructure for long-term sustainable development will be fully launched by 2025.

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Summary: The 'Selbe Sub-center' Project Bid Opened and Penalties for Z. Enkhbold and B. Enkh-Amgalan Nullified

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: news.mn

This is a summary of notable events that took place this week. "THE EXCLUSION OF A LAWYER IN N. UNURTSETSEG'S TRIAL WAS A MISTAKE" N. Unurtsetseg's lawyers held a press conference last Monday. According to lawyer B. Baatarsaikhan, the decision of N. Unurtsetseg’s trial was made on July 19, 2024. On that day, a court summary was released, which included information implying that the lawyers obstructed the proceedings. In today's meeting, it was discussed that the lawyers did not cause any obstruction either. N. Unurtsetseg's trial was scheduled on July 18 at 13:30. I had another overlapping trial scheduled at the same time. In other words, the two trials overlapped. I was not informed of N. Unurtsetseg's court schedule. Previously, there was never a delay in providing defense for N. Unurtsetseg without reason. Lawyer Orosoo was left at the trial. He was responsible for handling incorrect information related matters. Since there was one lawyer present, a decision was made to allow N. Unurtsetseg to enter the trial. I was specializing in information concerning state secrets. Lawyer Orosoo was not able to defend in that matter. N. Unurtsetseg refused defense as the sole lawyer had not fully familiarized himself with the case. Nevertheless, the court did not accept this request. On that day, one of the overlapping trials was postponed, and I entered N. Unurtsetseg’s courtroom at 13:20. There is a regulation to postpone the trial if a judge is withdrawn. When lawyer Orosoo and I entered to defend, the trial was not postponed. It was said to be in recess and ongoing. Therefore, Baatarsaikhan requested to be released, following which I was excused. Consequently, a complaint was filed with the relevant authorities due to the lack of lawyer participation and issues with case examination. Today, the court will finalize the judgment regarding N. Unurtsetseg's guilt. The lawyers disagree with the court's decision and have filed an appeal. "'SELBE SUB-CENTER' PROJECT CONSTRUCTION BID OPENED" The construction works bid for the "Selbe Sub-center" project was officially opened today. B. Batzorig, a specialist from NOSK, announced that the construction work for the project, totaling 240 billion MNT and divided into two packages, has been put up for bid. Two participants submitted bids for each package. Specifically, for the first package, the construction work on Site A of a 13-hectare area in Chingeltei district, "Bodi Properties LLC" submitted a bid of 119 billion MNT, and "Hunan Industrial Equipment Installation LLC" also submitted a bid of 119 billion MNT. Meanwhile, for the construction work of Site B in the second package, "China Construction Continent and Ocean Mongolia LLC" submitted a bid of 111 billion MNT, while "Hunan Industrial Equipment Installation LLC" submitted a bid of 109 billion MNT. The evaluation committee will perform the assessment in accordance with relevant laws. Notifications will be sent to participants within 15 working days, and recommendations will be submitted to the client. The documentation of the tender includes criteria that match the work scope and quantities. Evaluations will be conducted according to these criteria. Generally, from the opening of the bid until the completion of contracts, the tender is valid for 30 days. After that, construction work will begin. This project includes the construction of 18 apartment blocks: ten 9-story blocks and five 5-story blocks. Tenders for exterior engineering infrastructure and green area will be announced soon. The work is planned to be completed by December 1, 2025. THE PENALTIES FOR Z. ENKHBOLD AND B. ENKH-AMGALAN NULLIFIED The first-instance court hearing related to Member of Parliament, former chair of the Standing Committee on Security and Foreign Policy B. Enkh-Amgalan, and former Chief of the Presidential Office Z. Enkhbold, took place in March this year, where the decision was announced. At that time, the Sukhbaatar District Criminal Court imposed a penalty of revoking their public office appointments rights for five years and a fine of 40 million MNT. However, the appellate court of the Criminal Court of Ulaanbaatar reviewed the criminal case related to B. Enkh-Amgalan and Z. Enkhbold this past Wednesday. The appellate court concluded that the primary court had reached an unreasonable conclusion inconsistent with the factual reality of the case, failed to consider conditions that could seriously affect the outcome, did not specify evidence that could favor one party over another, and seriously violated the Criminal Procedure Law. Specifically, the court record of the primary hearing was supposed to capture the entire process from start to finish; however, discrepancies were found between the records and the audio-visual recordings, and when participants filed requests for amendments, the procedures were violated, and entries were made to records with different dates. Furthermore, it was noted that when multiple defendants are involved, the involvement, participation, and form of crime of each defendant should be clearly specified in the verdict per the law, yet this was not done. The evidence and testimonies regarding co-participation in criminal liability differed from one another without justifying why one was accepted over others. These circumstances fall under the grounds for invalidating the primary court's decision according to Article 39.5 of the Criminal Procedure Law, and thus, the Sukhbaatar District Criminal First Instance Court's decision of March 13, 2024, No. 2024/ShCT/262, was invalidated and resolved. PRESIDENT U. KHURELSUKH PARTICIPATED IN THE UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY The 79th session of the UN General Assembly began on September 24, 2024, at the UN headquarters in New York. The General Debate of the session is taking place from September 24 to 30 under the theme "Leaving No One Behind: Upholding Peace, Sustainable Development, and Human Dignity Now and for the Future Generations". The General Debate features participation from Heads of State from 88 countries, Vice Presidents from three countries, Prime Ministers from 35 countries, and Deputy Prime Ministers from six countries. Here are excerpts from the speech of the President of Mongolia, U. Khurelsukh, at the UN General Assembly. He emphasized his affinity for the "Conscience" statue each time he participates at the assembly, saying each visit evokes a profound reflection on the responsibility, conscience, and honor we must uphold for humanity’s history and future generations. He noted that distrust, misunderstanding, and disrespect continue to lead to conflict, armed conflicts, and wars, exacerbating geopolitical tensions. The international community is being rightly tasked with establishing peace, fighting climate change, protecting universal health, reducing economic inequality, and upholding justice. This year has become a year of great choice with presidential and parliamentary elections held in over 60 countries globally. The parliamentary elections in Mongolia were successfully conducted within the legal framework and were praised by international organizations. Mongolia aims to respect pluralism and develop international relations with a multi-pillar policy. Mongolia calls on the world’s nations and ethnicities to collaborate in preventing the use of force against any country's territorial integrity and sovereignty, and consistently strengthen global peace and security. The principle of sending and receiving envoys and fostering diplomacy and conciliation remains a cornerstone of Mongolia's foreign policy. The idea of coexisting peacefully and upholding unity, cherished by our ancestors, serves as a progressive philosophy underpinning current peace and stability efforts. Growing geopolitical tensions worldwide, ongoing wars, and potential nuclear threats are alarming humanity. Mongolia has contributed to the elimination of nuclear threats, established its nuclear-weapon-free status globally, and reaffirmed its commitment to this policy. Mongolia urges all countries to collaborate for peace, stability, and to create a nuclear-free world. With over 20,000 peacekeepers deployed in global hotspots, Mongolia contributes to global peace and security. Global warming and climate change are leading to direct and indirect threats and risks that go beyond natural, meteorological, and economic domains. Mongolians, descendants of nomads, have cherished and preserved our unique cultural heritage. Leaders are called upon to contribute actively to global peace, security, sustainable development, and the goodwill of humanity. "WE WILL INCREASE SALARIES AND PENSIONS ANNUALLY IN LINE WITH INFLATION" L. Enkh-Amgalan, Minister of Family, Labor, and Social Protection, held a briefing today regarding housing loans transferred from the Social Insurance Fund’s savings and the ministry's future actions and budget plans. In the budget of the national government for 2025, 4.5 trillion MNT is allocated for the work of the Ministry of Family, Labor, and Social Protection. From this amount, 2.6 trillion MNT is set aside for child benefits and welfare. The ministry will cover discrepancies in pensions from the Social Insurance Fund with an expense of 1.4 trillion MNT. Minister L. Enkh-Amgalan highlighted that extensive losses are emerging in the Social Insurance Fund. Mongolia is confronting a pivotal issue regarding the existence of the pension insurance fund. He stated that with increased national budget subsidies, 1.4 trillion MNT from the state will be taken in 2025 to pay pensions. Risks are faced in 2026 with subsidies needed rising to 2.5 trillion MNT, and in 2027 reaching 2.9 trillion MNT, as pensions are then funded entirely by the state budget subsidies.

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The pipeline repair will be fully completed by the 1st of next month

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: news.mn

In Ulaanbaatar, a variety of construction activities are underway, ranging from replacing curbs to road and pipeline installation. As a result, in some areas, roads are partially closed to assemble water drainage pipelines. When asked about the completion status of this installation work, S. Batsaykhan, the Chief Engineer of the Geodesy and Water Construction Facility Department (GWCD), stated that it will be completed by next week. He mentioned that presently, the water drainage pipeline work is 90% complete and is expected to be fully finished by October 1. Currently, pipeline work is being done in front of the First School and at the Officers' Palace. The installation of pipelines has been completed at Dari Ekh, the Central Stadium, Shar Khad, Tsaiz 16, Tavantolgoi, the Knitting Factory, the First District, and two roads in the suburbs. After the pipeline renewal is finished, road repair work will continue, as announced by the city authorities.

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Society

T.Batsogt: Restrictions and curbs won't solve the problem

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: news.mn

The traffic congestion in the capital city has reached absurd levels in recent years, with traffic standstills becoming a normal occurrence. Studies show that citizens of Ulaanbaatar spend one out of every twelve months stuck in traffic. The mayor of Ulaanbaatar, Kh. Nyambaatar, imprudently declared that the number of vehicles in the city would soon be limited to 720,000, causing a sharp increase in vehicle numbers and pushing dealers to skyrocket car prices. The authorities have so far only managed to appoint a special minister and change the roadside curbs, without implementing any substantial measures, leading to no significant results and resorting to even-odd driving restrictions during the peak of winter. As the city council elections are underway, the Democratic Party of the capital city has outlined in its program how it plans to tackle the critical traffic issue. T. Batsogt, head of the city's Democratic Party and candidate in the 2nd district of Bayanzurkh District, stated, "The entire city can see how building just one underpass or one bridge is taking hundreds of billions of tugriks and years of delay. We will never solve the city's congestion at a tortoise's pace. Our city has turned into a lawless city, where lawbreakers are condoned and favored, changing into a city that's unfriendly to its people and children. The increase in accidents caused by Sur-ron, scooters, mopeds, and motorcycles has led to a feeble ban proposal with no other solutions. Why is nobody talking about building roads for bicycles, Sur-ron, scooters, and mopeds? If we had such roads, pedestrians would be safer, it wouldn't hinder vehicle traffic as much, and it would help reduce congestion. Today, Ulaanbaatar is congested due to the absence of adequate streets and roads for both vehicles and pedestrians, and the inability to hold people accountable for breaking the rules. A city with 1.6 million people has less than ten bridges on the Tuul and Selbe rivers. There are roads with multiple-level intersections. The solution to congestion involves having sufficient roads, public transport, and parking spaces. Public transport buses should have dedicated roads to travel without congestion, and citizens should be able to travel on special paths for bikes, scooters, and Sur-ron without being an obstacle to pedestrians. People with cars should be able to choose routes with minimal traffic based on their preferences. Restricting, banning, or fixating on curbs will not solve the problem,” he argues, outlining the issues and solutions.

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An Auction for Lucky License Plate Numbers with a Deposit of 2 Million

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: news.mn

The National Center for Auto Transport has announced the schedule for an auction of vehicle license plate numbers. This is being conducted under the framework of the "Procedure for Organizing the Auction of Vehicle Registration Numbers" approved by Order No. A/207 of the Minister of Road and Transport Development on July 6, 2022. An open electronic auction has been announced for the sale of the following vehicle registration numbers. The auction will take place between October 7 and December 16, and will be conducted on the website auction.transdep.mn. The amount of the deposit required for the auction varies. A 'lucky number' such as 000A or AAAA requires a deposit of two million MNT, numbers like 00A0, 0AAA, A000, 00AA, 0A00 require five hundred thousand MNT, and numbers like 00AB, ABAB, ABBA, AABB, AAA0, AAAB as well as other 20 numbers and local numbers require one hundred thousand MNT. Participants are allowed to participate in the auction only once per day. Regarding registration, participants will be registered online starting three days before the auction they wish to attend, where they can also submit their deposit. Registration closes at 11:00 PM on the day before the auction. It is also noted that the winning participant of the auction will be the one offering the highest bid, and they must pay for the purchased license plate within 24 hours and enter into a "Vehicle Registration Number Allocation Agreement" to finalize the transaction. If the winner fails to make the payment within the specified period, the deposit will not be refunded. After full payment, the winner will be obliged to place the number on their vehicle within five working days. Participants can obtain more information about the auction by calling 70070030 or 1900-1234.

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SELENGE: Many Famous Personalities Emerge from the 100-Year-Old School

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Over the weekend, the historical 100th anniversary of the general education school in Baruunburen soum, Selenge province was celebrated. On the occasion of the anniversary, the provincial leadership team decided to support the activities of the "Teacher Development Center" by providing financial support of 80 million tögrögs and sent a congratulatory message. From this century-old school have emerged many renowned individuals, such as State Prize winner and Cultural Merited Worker, renowned prose writer D. Myagmar; Labor Hero of Mongolia, academician, Doctor P. Nyamdavaa; the former plenipotentiary ambassador diplomat N. Choinhor; Human's Merited Doctor, medical doctor, and former member of parliament B. Demberel; former Governor of Selenge province and Doctor of Economics I. Nyamboo; former Governor of Selenge province S. Burenbat; Merited Agricultural Worker of Mongolia and the Russian Republic of Buryatia D. Badarch; Merited Economist and former member of parliament R. Sodkhuu; Merited Teacher D. Dulamsuren; Merited Veterinarian N. Shagj; and many other renowned figures.

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Environment

Warning: Snowfall and Slick Roads in Most Regions

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: isee.mn

The National Emergency Management Agency has issued a warning that most regions are experiencing cold temperatures today, with wet snow leading to slick and slippery conditions on roads and mountain passes. Due to these conditions, travelers are advised not to undertake long-distance trips unless absolutely necessary. If travel is unavoidable, ensure that your vehicle is in good technical condition before departing.

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VIDEO: Flood in Tsagaan Khad, Umnugovi Province submerges a truck

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: isee.mn

For the past two days, rain and snow have been falling across the entire region. Due to the large amount of rain, some areas have experienced flooding, making it difficult for vehicles to pass. Specifically, in the Tsagaan Khad area of Khanbogd district in Umnugovi province, a flood has occurred, causing vehicles to be swept away or get stuck in the mud. The local emergency services are working on organizing operations to pull out the submerged vehicles. Additionally, the snow in some areas has led to slippery conditions on roads and passes, creating challenging situations. The heavy rainfall around Tsagaan Khad in Umnugovi province has resulted in significant damage.

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SOUTH GOBI: Establishing a Grove of Indigenous Trees in the Gobi

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: montsame.mn

In the Khongoryn Els area near Nudun Bulag of Umnugovi province, 108 seedlings of the jiids, a native plant of the Gobi, have been planted to establish the "Peace Grove of Loving the Earth." The "Peace Grove of Loving the Earth" project is being implemented through the "Green Mother Mongolia" NGO, and an opening ceremony was held recently. Under the patronage of the Governor of Umnugovi province, the project aims to encourage mining companies operating in the region to collaborate by creating large plantations of cultivated trees, thereby contributing to the prevention of desertification with joint participation from both the public and private sectors. Additionally, the "Top Donj" company supported the event organized under the motto "Love Our Earth" and held a fashion show showcasing their luxurious and elegant cashmere products for the 2024-2025 autumn and winter collections. Furthermore, near the Khongor River, a project initiated by B. Batsaikhan, Governor of Sevrei District in Umnugovi province, has been underway since 2022 to plant about 9,000 trees over a 10-hectare area. As of today, 8,600 willow trees have been planted and cultivated.

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Warning of Dangerous Weather Conditions

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: montsame.mn

According to the information from the Meteorological and Environmental Research Agency, heavy wet snow is expected today in the northern parts of Dornod and Sukhbaatar. In the southeastern part of Sukhbaatar and the southern part of Dornod, heavy rainfall is also expected today, while wet snow will fall in the southern part of Khentii. Snowstorms will occur in the northern part of Sukhbaatar and the western part of Dornod. Today, wet snow and snow will fall in the central and northeastern parts of the country, with cold and windy conditions prevailing in most areas, causing slippery roads and trails. There is a possibility of crops and vegetables being buried under snow or exposed food crops being damaged. A special warning is given to herders, residents, haymakers, farmers, and transporters. The weather forecast from September 30 to October 4: On the 30th, in the eastern half of the country; on October 1, in the mountainous areas of Khangai, Khuvsgul, Khentii, and the Dariganga steppe regions; and on the 3rd, in the basin of Uvs Lake, mountainous regions of Khuvsgul and Khentii, rain, wet snow, and snow will occur. On the 30th, in the gobi, steppe, and desert areas; and on October 3, in the Altai mountain range, winds will strengthen reaching 15-17 meters per second. On October 1, the western part of the country, and on the 2nd, most of the country will experience slight warming of daytime temperatures. In the Darkhad Basin, Altai, Khangai, Khuvsgul, Khentii mountainous areas, the headwaters of the Zavkhan River, Khurenbelchir, and in the valleys of Ider, Tes, Tuul, Terelj, Kherlen, and Onon Rivers, nighttime temperatures will be -5 to -10 degrees Celsius. Daytime temperatures will be 0 to +5 degrees Celsius. In the southern part of the Great Lakes Depression and desert regional areas, nighttime temperatures will be +2 to +7 degrees Celsius and daytime temperatures will be +9 to +14 degrees Celsius. In other areas, nighttime temperatures will be 0 to -5 degrees Celsius and daytime temperatures will be +5 to +10 degrees Celsius.

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Sukhbaatar: Snowstorm to Continue Until 5 PM

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: montsame.mn

Yesterday, hail and heavy rain fell throughout Sukhbaatar province, and a snowstorm occurred overnight. The highest rainfall, up to 75 mm, was recorded in Sukhbaatar and Baruun-Urt Asgat sums. The ongoing snowstorm is expected to continue until 5 PM today, according to weather reports. In particular, more snow is expected in the northern part of the region, with wind speeds reaching 16-18 m/s, leading to harsh and cold conditions. Due to the snowstorm, visibility is limited, roads and passes may become slippery, and there is a risk of power line disruptions. Residents are advised to remain vigilant and take preventive measures. Additionally, herders and drivers are urged not to travel long distances, to keep livestock in shelters, and to avoid sending young children and the elderly to herd the animals.

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Rain in Dornogovi, Umnugovi, Sukhbaatar; Snow in Dornod, Sukhbaatar

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

Warning: Weather disaster prevention notice: Tonight, heavy rain is expected in Dornogovi, the eastern part of Umnugovi, and the western part of Sukhbaatar. Wet snow will fall tomorrow in the northern part of Dornod and Sukhbaatar. Alert: Weather hazard warning: Tonight, substantial rain is expected in Govi-Sumber and the southern part of Khentii; tomorrow, more rain is expected in the southeastern part of Sukhbaatar and the southern part of Dornod. Wet snow is expected tonight in the southeastern part of Tuv province, and tomorrow in the southern part of Khentii. Tomorrow, in the northern part of Sukhbaatar and the western part of Dornod, a snowstorm will occur. Attention to herders, residents, haymakers, farmers, and transporters: On the night of the 28th-29th, substantial rain will fall in most parts of the southern and eastern aimags, so be cautious of flood dangers. On the 29th, wet snow and snow will fall in the central and northeastern parts of the country, causing most places to cool down and become windy; roads and passes may become slippery, crops may be buried in snow, and open vegetables may be damaged, so take special care. Weather forecast until 20:00: Precipitation: Mostly cloudy across most of the country. Rain, wet snow, and snow will fall tonight in the southern parts of the western aimags, in the central, Gobi, and most eastern aimags; during the day in the eastern part of the western and Gobi aimags, some places in the central aimags, and most eastern aimags. Snowstorms will blow in the eastern part of the country. Wind: In the southeastern part of the country, the wind will shift from the southwest to the north, reaching 7-12 m/s, at times up to 16-18 m/s. In other areas, the wind will be from the northwest at 5-10 m/s. Air temperature: At night in the Darkhad depression, Mongol-Altai, Khuvsgul mountainous region, and the headwaters of the Zavkhan River, it will be -7 to -12 degrees cold. In the Great Lakes cavity, Khurenbelchir area, Khangai, Khentii mountainous region, and the valleys of the Eg, Uur, and Terelj rivers, it will be -1 to -6 degrees cold. In the southern part of the Gobi region and the Daryganga steppe, it will be +5 to +10 degrees. In other areas, the temperature will be -2 to +3 degrees at night, and during the day it will be -2 to +3 degrees in the Darkhad depression, Mongol-Altai, Khangai, Khuvsgul, and Khentii mountains, as well as the valleys of the Kherlen, Onon, Ulz, and Terelj rivers. It will cool to +8 to +13 degrees in the southwestern part of the Gobi region, with temperatures ranging from +2 to +7 degrees in other areas. ULANBAATAR: Cloudy. Light rain will fall. Wind will be from the northwest at 6-11 m/s. At night, the temperature will be 0 to -2 degrees cold, and during the day it will be +2 to +4 degrees warm. BAGANUUR: Cloudy. Snow will fall. Wind will be from the northwest at 7-12 m/s. At night, the temperature will be 0 to -2 degrees cold, and during the day it will be +1 to +3 degrees warm. TERELJ: Cloudy. Snow will fall at night, and light rain during the day. Wind will be from the northwest at 5-10 m/s. At night, the temperature will be -1 to -3 degrees cold, and during the day it will be 0 to +2 degrees warm. Weather forecast from September 30 to October 4: On the 30th, rain, wet snow, and snow will fall in the eastern half of the country. On October 1st, rain, wet snow, and snow will fall in Khangai, Khuvsgul, Khentii mountains, and the Daryganga steppe. On the 3rd, it will snow and rain in the Uvs Lake depression, Khuvsgul, and Khentii mountainous regions. The wind will increase to 15-17 m/s in the Gobi, steppe, and plain regions on the 30th, and on October 3rd in the Altai mountain ranges. On October 1st, the temperatures will slightly increase during the day in the western part of the country and on the 2nd in many areas. In the Darkhad depression, Altai, Khangai, Khuvsgul, Khentii mountains, and the headwaters of the Zavkhan River, near Khurenbelchir, and in the Ider, Tes, Tuul, Terelj, Kherlen, and Onon river valleys, night temperatures will be -5 to -10 degrees cold, and during the day they will be 0 to +5 degrees. In the Great Lakes cavity and the southern part of the Gobi region, it will be +2 to +7 degrees at night and +9 to +14 degrees during the day, while in other areas it will be 0 to -5 degrees cold at night and +5 to +10 degrees warm during the day.

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Today is the Last Day of the "Autumn Green Days"

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: news.mn

The peak season for farmers to sell their crops is every September. During this time, it is possible for citizens to acquire nutritious fruits and vegetables grown in Mongolian soil directly from farmers. The bridge to this is the "Autumn Green Days" exhibition. Today is the last day of this extensive exhibition. It is notable that small and medium enterprises, family farmers, cooperatives, national food factories, and herders are all participating. For vegetables, the prices per kilogram are as follows: potatoes 900-1000 MNT, carrots 1800-2000 MNT, beets 2300-2500 MNT, onions 2500-2700 MNT, tomatoes 8000 MNT, apples 6000 MNT, and wild fruits 15-20 thousand MNT. These prices are 200-500 MNT cheaper than the average prices in markets and shopping centers as reported by the National Statistical Office. Additionally, you can buy dairy products directly from herders at the "Autumn Green Days". Various types of curds, with or without sugar, milk, and pressed curds range from 35-45 thousand MNT. Cream costs 15 thousand MNT, and depending on the packaging, butter sells for 8-28 thousand MNT. Fermented mare's milk (airag) is 10 thousand MNT per liter, and mixed butter is also priced at 10-35 thousand MNT based on packaging. Meat, specifically whole sheep, costs 10 thousand MNT. Many types of vendors, including those selling leather goods, wooden items, metal containers, and beekeeping products, have set up their stalls. Moreover, stalls from nut and fruit producers and local food manufacturers are also participating in the exhibition.

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Warning: Alert for Severe Weather Conditions

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: news.mn

The National Agency for Meteorology and Environmental Monitoring has issued a warning for potential severe weather conditions. Specifically, today heavy wet snow is expected in the northern parts of Dornod and Sukhbaatar. Additionally, significant rainfall is forecasted for the southeastern part of Sukhbaatar and the southern part of Dornod. According to the information from the agency, today wet snow will fall in the southern part of Khentii, and snowstorms are expected in the northern part of Sukhbaatar and the western part of Dornod. Therefore, when traveling long distances, please take precautions against potential risks and consistently check the weather forecasts.

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Wet snow will fall and it will get colder in most areas

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: news.mn

The Meteorological Agency warns that today, wet snow and snow will fall in the central and northeastern parts of the country. It will get colder with windy conditions across most areas, leading to slippery roads and passes and potentially covering crops and vegetables with snow. Exposed produce could freeze, which is a special caution they highlight. Most areas will be cloudy. Rain, wet snow, and snow are expected in eastern parts of western and Gobi provinces, some areas of central provinces, and most areas of eastern provinces, with snowstorms in the eastern part of the country. In the eastern areas, the wind will shift from southwest to north, reaching speeds of 7-12 meters per second, sometimes increasing to 16-18 meters per second. In other areas, the wind will blow from the northwest at 5-10 meters per second. In the basins of the Darkhad, Mongol-Altai, Khangai, Khövsgöl, and Khentii mountainous areas, and the Khėrlėn, Onon, Ulz, and Tėrėlj rivers, temperatures will be between -2 to +3 degrees Celsius. In the southwest of the Gobi region, temperatures will range from +8 to +13 degrees Celsius, and in other areas, they will be between +2 to +7 degrees Celsius. AROUND ULAANBAATAR: Cloudy. No precipitation. Wind from the northwest at 6-11 meters per second. Temperatures will range between +3 to +5 degrees Celsius.

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Large Amounts of Wet Snow Expected in Northern Dornod and Sukhbaatar Today

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: gogo.mn

Warning: Weather Disaster Prevention News: Today, a large amount of wet snow will fall in northern Dornod and Sukhbaatar. Alert: Hazardous Weather Warning: Today, significant rainfall is expected in the southeastern part of Sukhbaatar and the southern part of Dornod. Wet snow will fall in the southern part of Hentii, and there will be snowstorms in the northern part of Sukhbaatar and the western part of Dornod. Attention to herders, residents, haymakers, farmers, and drivers: Today, wet snow and snow will fall in the central and northeastern parts of the country, with most regions experiencing cold and windy conditions, resulting in slippery and icy conditions on roads, passes, and hills. Crops and vegetables may be covered with snow, and outdoor fruits and vegetables can freeze. Special care should be taken to prevent these issues. Weather forecast from 08:00 to 20:00: Cloudy in most areas. Rain, wet snow, and snow will fall in the eastern part of Western and Gobi provinces, some areas of Central provinces, and most areas of Eastern provinces, with snowstorms in the eastern part of the country. The wind will shift from the southwest to the north in the eastern part of the country at 7-12 meters per second, occasionally strengthening to 16-18 meters per second. In other areas, the wind will be 5-10 meters per second from the northwest. Temperatures will range from -2 to +3 degrees in the Darkhad Valley, Mongol-Altai, Khangai, Khövsgöl, and Khentii mountainous regions, and along the valleys of the Kherlen, Onon, Ulz, and Terelj rivers. The southwestern part of the Gobi region will see temperatures between +8 and +13 degrees, while other regions will range from +2 to +7 degrees. Around Ulaanbaatar City: Cloudy. No precipitation. Wind from the northwest at 6-11 meters per second. Temperature will be +3 to +5 degrees. Around Baganuur: Cloudy. No precipitation. Wind from the northwest at 7-12 meters per second. Temperature will be +2 to +4 degrees. Around Terelj: Cloudy. No precipitation. Wind from the northwest at 5-10 meters per second. Temperature will be 0 to +2 degrees. Weather forecast for the upcoming days: Over the next few days, conditions will vary across the region. On the 30th, expect weather changes in the eastern half of the country. On October 1, conditions will change in the Khangai, Khövsgöl, Khentii mountainous regions, and the Dari-Ganga steppe. On the 3rd, rain, wet snow, and snow will fall in the Uvs Lake Basin, Khövsgöl, and Khentii mountainous regions. Winds will strengthen on the 30th in the Gobi, steppes, and plains, and on October 3, in the Altai mountainous regions, reaching speeds of 15-17 meters per second. On October 1, the western part will experience weather changes, with slight warming during the day on the 2nd in most areas. In the Darkhad Valley, Altai, Khangai, Khövsgöl, Khentii mountainous regions, and around the sources of the Zavkhan River, Kurenbelchir area, as well as along the Ider, Tes, Tuul, Terelj, Kherlen, and Onon river valleys, nighttime temperatures will drop to -5 to -10 degrees and rise to 0 to +5 degrees during the day. In the Great Lakes Basin and the southern Gobi region, nighttime temperatures will be +2 to +7 degrees and daytime temperatures will range from +9 to +14 degrees. In other regions, expect temperatures between 0 to -5 degrees at night and +5 to +10 degrees during the day, according to the National Agency for Hydrology and Meteorology.

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Innovation

If Our Universities Were Better, Young People Wouldn't Leave for Other Countries

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: news.mn

I had a discussion with Dr. E. Sarantsetseg, a Ph.D. in Political Science. The main goal and dream of Mongolian youths today is to go study in a foreign country. Each year, the number of young people heading abroad keeps increasing. What is causing this trend? - If living in Mongolia were safe, secure, and without significant educational quality discrepancies, young people would want to stay in their homeland. Unfortunately, the knowledge acquired in Mongolia is not valued; if you study abroad, you are held in higher regard than those who graduate from domestic universities. If our universities offered quality and accessible education, not so many young people would go abroad. Personally, if my education here was on par with global standards, I wouldn't choose to study abroad. But I went to a developed country to gain knowledge and learn more. Often we talk about the advantages of studying abroad. What are the drawbacks? Based on your experience studying abroad, you probably have some realistic insights to share. - People often talk about the good aspects of studying abroad. However, there are disadvantages to everything. Naturally, there are many advantages and good things. But let us talk about the other side. Our young people go to acquire various levels of education. However, recently, more students are going immediately to Bachelor’s programs after finishing high school. This has led to many issues. Wherever you go, you study in a foreign language. Many times, you can't internalize professional terminology in your native language. There are also instances where you don't fully understand the nuances of what your teacher is saying, leading to incomplete foundational knowledge. When these young people return to Mongolia, they should be able to apply what they have learned effectively. However, some cannot adjust to the reality of their surroundings. Learning in a foreign country during the formative years can alienate one from their Mongolian environment, making it hard for them to understand. For the most part, only those who make two to three times the effort as local students can succeed when studying in a foreign language. Studying abroad requires sacrificing youth and finances. While it seems like you gain a lot, there is much that is lost. To exaggerate a little, after studying abroad for five years, I returned with just two sheets of paper that said 'Doctorate awarded.' To some, it means a lot, but for others, it’s just stored away. Meanwhile, my peers who stayed and worked domestically have long since established their lives and positions in society. Ultimately, life goes on with or without a doctorate. Everyone has different paths and goals in life, and you don’t have to study abroad or get a doctorate. However, we need to understand that education contributes greatly to societal development. Going to a foreign country right after leaving your parents' nest can be a psychological blow. Could this cause young people to divert from their goals? - Of course, you face many social and psychological challenges. Many young people, unable to overcome this shock, diverge from their main goals. I studied in South Korea, a popular destination for Mongolians. Many go abroad without thorough research or realistic considerations, thinking it is enough to just study abroad. Many young people, unable to cope with the emotional and social changes in an unfamiliar environment, have gone astray. If you study abroad without a scholarship, you must work to sustain yourself. Many, in my observation, work to pay their tuition to extend their visas rather than to learn. Therefore, they don't really gain substantial knowledge. Considering the effort needed to learn in their own language in Mongolia versus studying abroad, it's not always a clear choice. I'm not saying this applies to everyone who studies abroad, but the disadvantages should not be ignored either. There seems to be a perception that those who study abroad are top-ranked and those who study domestically are second-tier. This perception must be addressed. - Assuming everyone who studies abroad has amassed a wealth of quality knowledge is mistaken. Sometimes, students who graduate domestically are ahead of those who studied abroad. Being educated abroad cannot automatically guarantee you a top position. There should be specific criteria to evaluate qualifications, including professional standards. However, it’s undeniable that we continue to lose skilled human resources. Once people go abroad, they often integrate into life there. What are your thoughts on this? - We are indeed losing our young minds. Those who have lived abroad from an early age find it challenging to settle back in Mongolia. Thus, they apply their knowledge to develop other countries and markets, making investments overseas. After spending significant time abroad, individuals establish their lives there, which is understandable. Once they have families, they strive to give their children the best education and living conditions available, often deciding to live permanently in a foreign country. As a result, we lose our workforce and can't fully utilize our talented youth. The impact is already visible; we are facing an immense shortage of human resources. How can we stop this flow of young people leaving the country? What should we do to retain them in Mongolia? - To prevent losing our valuable Mongolian citizens, we must primarily focus on education. Societies emphasizing education and human development thrive and grow sustainably. An educated person is not only economically stable and independent but also more health-conscious and inclined towards proper living habits. Ultimately, educated individuals become the key to a country's development. Thus, for any nation to progress, attention must be given to its educational and developmental systems. Although our education system appears stable on the surface, it suffers from significant shortcomings in implementation and monitoring. In other words, our educational subsystems are in serious distress. We're the ones implementing this system, so why are there failures? This points to a systemic flaw. We don’t handle things in an orderly, precise, and responsible manner. Even if there are plans and standards, they are often just left on paper as declarations. Most of the time, we operate only to meet short-term governmental directives, without a comprehensive strategy. This approach destabilizes any system. If we were educated and responsible, we wouldn’t depend on anyone else, and we would approach our work responsibly. Yet, because we can’t, our system faces failures. Can this issue be linked to the salaries and conditions of teachers? - Yes, it can. If teachers are well-paid, they won’t be distracted by external concerns. Moreover, talented youth would compete to become teachers. Once they became teachers, they would strive to improve and excel in their work to avoid losing their well-paying jobs. However, today, teachers’ salaries are often inadequate. As a result, they take on additional work to make ends meet, which leaves no time for research or self-improvement. Teachers are burdened with administrative tasks that could be handled by others. Those meant to work closely with students end up struggling for extra income. This is one of the major reasons the education system is failing. In South Korea, for example, university teachers with five years of service are given a year-long paid sabbatical to conduct research and development. This allows them to grow and improve. Each elementary school teacher also has an assistant. A well-developed teacher can deliver an excellent education to their students. Moreover, we need to start developing children from a young age. From the womb and in kindergarten, they should learn the meaning of being human and acquire basic life skills. We should also focus on improving creative thinking and problem-solving abilities. Therefore, if we want to create a developed Mongolia, our first focus must be on investing in and improving our education system. It's essential to design solutions based on our country's unique characteristics and make changes from the ground up for tangible results.

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B. Munkhbat: There should be no difference between central and peripheral schools

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: news.mn

The Law on Education, which was newly implemented in 2008, led to the establishment of the first Education Department in Chingeltei District, where I was appointed as the head of the department. Therefore, my work and life are closely connected with education. Secondly, a significant culture has been established in Chingeltei District, where the leadership of the education sector is appointed based on merit principles. A person who was a teacher becomes a training manager. A good training manager becomes a principal after a few years. After working for many years, the principals are transferred between schools. The same applies to kindergartens. Principals with more skill in economic affairs are appointed to subdistricts with poor infrastructure, with the task of developing the household affairs, and they are rotated in this manner. This rotation and integration of operations were aimed at minimizing the so-called educational differences as much as possible. Management follows the principal, and sometimes the teachers do, too. Our goal was to ensure that there is no visible difference in the quality of city center schools and peripheral schools, and we have come close to this condition. As a result, the education sector of Chingeltei District maintains a relatively high and stable performance among the districts of the capital city. In the future, we will implement many initiatives in the education sector that will set a benchmark for the country. For example, the first schools with swimming pools and specialized sports halls will soon open in Chingeltei. Prepared by the election headquarters of the Chingeltei District's MPP.

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Health

Planned Attack on Dutch Covid-19 Vaccine Plant

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: news.mn

Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson had planned to attack a Dutch Covid-19 vaccine plant in March 2021. This was in response to the European Union's ban on exporting five million doses of the vaccine to the United Kingdom. Boris Johnson had given instructions to his senior military officials in this regard. At the time, the UK's Deputy Chief of the Defense Staff, Lieutenant General Doug Chalmers, told the former prime minister, "We could attack using small boats. However, we need to consider the diplomatic consequences. Completing this mission without being caught is difficult. If caught, we will need to explain why we are attacking a long-standing NATO ally." Boris Johnson recalled that he fully agreed with this but did not wish to express it outwardly. The vaccines in question were developed by Oxford University and AstraZeneca, with doses manufactured by subcontractors in the Netherlands and the UK. While the vaccine was widely used in the UK at the time, the doses packaged at the Dutch plant were awaiting approval from the European Union.

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Sports

Highlighting Mongolia's First Medalist in Youth Powerlifting World Championships

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: itoim.mn

Highlighting M. Baljinnyam, the first Mongolian athlete to win a medal in total at the Youth Powerlifting World Championships, and a Master of Sports. In the World Powerlifting Championships for youth and juniors, our country's "SBD Strength" club athlete, Master of Sports M. Baljinnyam, competed in the -74 kg category, pressing 207.5 kg, and stood on the podium for the champion's gold medal. Not only that, but he also ranked fourth in squat with 255 kg and fourth in deadlift with 250 kg, lifting a total of 712.5 kg, winning an additional silver medal. In doing so, he became the first athlete in Mongolian powerlifting history to win a medal in the total at the Youth Powerlifting World Championships, achieving a historic success. We are sharing a brief interview with Powerlifting Master M. Baljinnyam about his feelings of joy. M. Baljinnyam: My next goal is to win the first medal in total at the World Championships for adults. M. Baljinnyam: I am very happy to be the first Mongolian athlete to win a medal in total. When I received my medal and listened to the national anthem, I felt a great sense of pride and emotion. It was my first time on the world championship stage, so I was a bit nervous. However, my coaches and the people who supported and calmed me were there, so I tried to stay as calm as possible. I am the middle child in a family of six. I was the first to tell my family that I became a world champion. My family was overjoyed. I work as a rigger-signalman in the "MCS Property" project of Oyu Tolgoi. I took paid leave from work to prepare and successfully participated in the competition. I initially practiced freestyle sports and began powerlifting in 2017. At first, I only did bench presses. I have consistently trained without giving up until now. The best thing about powerlifting is constantly setting new records and increasing the weight you lift. You always challenge yourself and improve your achievements. My goal is to become a world champion for adults and aim for a medal in total. Mongolian athletes have not yet won a medal in total at the adult level. I would like to thank all those who helped and supported me, including my colleagues, the powerlifting federation, my family, and friends. His coaches included International Master of Sports and judge of the Mongolian Powerlifting Federation S. Minjbaatar and B. Duvjid, who are leaders of the "SBD Strength" club. The World Powerlifting Championships for youth and juniors were held in Malta. More than 750 athletes from around the world participated in this competition.

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Arts

Orpheus Theater to Premiere 'To Live' Drama Play

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: gogo.mn

The Orpheus Theater's latest production, the drama play "To Live," will be presented to audiences daily on the stage of the Culture Center starting October 1. Does a simple and happy life always remain bounded by righteous actions? What is the root and essence of human existence? The idea that living easily does not necessarily mean living happily is embedded in every line of Yu Hua's novella "To Live." This conveys the notion that fate gives us both happiness and suffering. Within that, finding our own existential values and points of reliance is of utmost importance, as illustrated by Yu Hua in this work. One of contemporary China's notable writers, Yu Hua was born in Hangzhou in 1960 into a doctor's family. After completing high school, he worked for five years as a dentist in his province before enrolling in Beijing's Lu Xun Literary Academy. He began his creative career in 1983, publishing his novella "To Live" in 1992, which has now reached the hands of Mongolian readers. Although the novella was banned at the time for misrepresenting the ideology of the Chinese Communist Party, it overcame such pressure. Since being translated into Western countries under the title "To Live," researchers have written considerable critiques and reflections regarding the impact of communism in connection with this novella. Now, the team at Orpheus Theater is set to bring to stage the "To Live" drama play, inspired by this work, during these contemplative autumn days centered on human life. The play is directed by Myagmarnaran Batbold and produced by Tumurtsukh Ariunchimeg. The playwright is translator and poet Munkhtsolyn Batbayar from the "Tagtaa" publishing house, who has beautifully translated Chinese works such as Yu Hua's "To Live," "Chronicles of a Blood Merchant," and "Zai Wen City" into Mongolian for readers. The main roles in the play will be performed by People's Artist D. Battomor, D. Gantsetseg, and young actors G. Otgonbat and B. Doljinsuren, among others. Also featuring are State Honored Artists G. Myagmarnaran, Ts. Tumurbaatar, B. Narmandakh, as well as M. Munkhbat, B. Oyunbaatar, B. Odgerel, U. Munguntulga, D. Munkhtumur, and Ts. Tugsbilegt. The essence of existence is "Tolerance." Enduring is synonymous with forgiving. Forgiving is akin to loving.

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The Children's Magic Land Center Organizes the PIANOLOG Competition

Published: 2024-09-29 | Translated from: unuudur.mn

On a rainy autumn day, the Children's Magic Land Center organized its PIANOLOG competition for the second year running with great success. Over 40 talented individuals registered from all corners of Ulaanbaatar city to participate, each bringing their own musical flair, allowing us to spend the day enveloped in classical music. This year's competition saw children performing some very challenging pieces. They had clearly advanced through several stages from last year and had prepared exceptionally well for the competition. Previously, the contest awarded 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places and special prizes, but this time, based on the judges' decision, a new GRAND PRIX award was introduced starting from this year. Competition results: GRAND PRIX - D. BAZARSAD 10-13 age category: - 1st place: E. Bilguun - 2nd place: T. Uuganbayar - 3rd place: B. Enkh-Enerel - Special prize: A. Iveel 6-9 age category: - 1st place: M. Nandin - 2nd place: M. Bat-Uchral - 3rd place: B. Batsuld - Special prize: Kh. Ankhnyam We plan to make this competition an annual tradition, so if you couldn't participate this time, be sure to join next year's contest, as our magical brothers and sisters specially invite you.

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Today's Stories

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Environment

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Health

Sports

Arts

Politics

There is information about opening the regular autumn session of the State Great Khural on October 01

Members of Parliament Worked at Major Markets and Shopping Centers in the Capital

Economy

Discussion on "Budget-2025" Held

L. Enkh-Amgalan: 70% of Welfare Expenses Do Not Reach Target Groups

A deficit of 4.7 trillion MNT has arisen in the pension fund

VIDEO: Live Person O. Otgontugs Disseminates False Information about "Fake Invoice" Showing Brochure Price as 40 Yuan in China

Diplomacy

B. Tsengellkham: Vietnam's Development Experience and Methods of Attracting Investment Are of Interest

Infrastructure

14 Mega Construction and 149 Sustainable Development Projects to be Implemented

Summary: The 'Selbe Sub-center' Project Bid Opened and Penalties for Z. Enkhbold and B. Enkh-Amgalan Nullified

The pipeline repair will be fully completed by the 1st of next month

Society

T.Batsogt: Restrictions and curbs won't solve the problem

An Auction for Lucky License Plate Numbers with a Deposit of 2 Million

SELENGE: Many Famous Personalities Emerge from the 100-Year-Old School

Environment

Warning: Snowfall and Slick Roads in Most Regions

VIDEO: Flood in Tsagaan Khad, Umnugovi Province submerges a truck

SOUTH GOBI: Establishing a Grove of Indigenous Trees in the Gobi

Warning of Dangerous Weather Conditions

Sukhbaatar: Snowstorm to Continue Until 5 PM

Rain in Dornogovi, Umnugovi, Sukhbaatar; Snow in Dornod, Sukhbaatar

Today is the Last Day of the "Autumn Green Days"

Warning: Alert for Severe Weather Conditions

Wet snow will fall and it will get colder in most areas

Large Amounts of Wet Snow Expected in Northern Dornod and Sukhbaatar Today

Innovation

If Our Universities Were Better, Young People Wouldn't Leave for Other Countries

B. Munkhbat: There should be no difference between central and peripheral schools

Health

Planned Attack on Dutch Covid-19 Vaccine Plant

Sports

Highlighting Mongolia's First Medalist in Youth Powerlifting World Championships

Arts

Orpheus Theater to Premiere 'To Live' Drama Play

The Children's Magic Land Center Organizes the PIANOLOG Competition

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